Mitch Daniels puckers up for a pig

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) – Representatives from Purdue University and News 18 puckered up for a good cause Thursday night. It was all part of this year’s Kiss-A-Pig Contest at the Tippecanoe County 4-H Fair.

Mitch Daniels raised the most money for the 4-H scholarship fund. Although it was a wet one, he said it was worth it for the 4-H’ers.

“Those who have not been able to see close up the sense of purpose and the accomplishment — a lot of work goes into bringing an animal to a county fair or putting a project together. A lot of our kids who aren’t fortunate enough to be part of that program miss out on that,” said Daniels.

Cameron Hopman had to kiss a cow and he had no problem going in for a second smooch.

Also at the fair Thursday night was the Supreme Livestock Showmanship Contest.

The five competitors had to demonstrate proper showmanship skills with five animals — cattle, dairy cattle, goats, sheep and swine. This year’s winner, Kyle Albregts, said it’s a championship he’s been wanting.

“I feel great! This is a long time coming for me — been after it for four years. Two of my teammates up on the board, it’s great,” said Albregts.

Thursday night at the fair wrapped up with the 36th annual Greased Watermelon Contest.

Teams from different barns and 4-H groups, including mini-4-H’ers, faced off to race through the ultimate obstacle course. The catch? Contestants in the relay had to carry a greased watermelon the entire way.